No Anti-Ashley chants

Rafa Benitez had again issued a call for unity once fans step inside St James’ Park. Protests had taken place outside the Sports Direct shop on Northumberland Street against owner Mike Ashley and, given the clear gulf in budget between Newcastle and Chelsea, there was an expectation by some that the anti-Ashley chants may sound inside the ground.

But the fans listened to Benitez and appeared to heed the manager’s call.

United were applauded off at the end of the game despite another defeat - a great sign of the patience and understanding the fans have of the situation.

No Wor Flags display

A giant flag of Rafa Benitez flutters in the Gallowgate End (Image: Getty Images Europe)

The popular fan group were set do their first flag display of the season having not done so against Tottenham, however come kick-off the display didn’t emerge.

The Gallowgate was bare of any of the flags which have become well known and liked by those who frequently visit St James’ Park.

On Twitter the Wor Flags account said it was a ‘long story’ to why the display didn’t take place and that they would be explaining at a later date what happened.

Sarri on the cigarettes

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - AUGUST 26: Maurizio Sarri, Manager of Chelsea smokes a cigarette as he looks on during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Chelsea FC at St. James Park on August 26, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) (Image: Getty Images Europe)

The Italian was well known for a cheeky smoke on the touchline while managing Napoli in Serie A.

In England, he isn’t afforded the same luxury due to all stadia in the country becoming smoke free in 2007.

United didn’t make any special arrangements for the Chelsea boss who appeared to resort to chewing an unlit cigarette.

Rafa’s communication

(Image: Newcastle United)

Matt Ritchie was wiped out in 67th minute with United looking to open the scoring in the game.

The crowd were up out of their seats gesturing for a booking and temperatures were rising, but in the brief moment of respite, Benitez and his assistant Mikel Antonia kept their cool and uses the rest period to their advantage.

Having just seen Oliver Giroud come off the bench, Schar was called over by Antonia and given instructions. The Swiss international listened intently, while at the same time Benitez issued instructions to Fernandez.